...Team Payne...

ho ho ho-lidays...

2012-01-04T21:04:00.000-08:00

I was looking for last years Christmas blog post and realized i didn't even post about it. Sure there are some random pictures here and there though, at least we have those to look back on. Like usual I find myself scouring through the Christmas pictures to find blurry snapshots of Deakon, and random pictures of holiday happenings. I don't know why but with big holidays and memories I seem to busy taking it all in then trying to get those sweet moments captured. It's kind of annoying really, seeing how I love to blog stalk all the blogs that seem to capture every last waking moment of Christmas and put it all together in a beautiful narrative blog post. oh well, I'll get better eventually and in the future my kids will be rolling their eyes every birthday or Christmas because their mom is a pathological picture taker.

Christmas this year was great. we finally were able to enjoy the holiday we were so busy preparing for and Deakon wising up to what's going on made it even better. We spent Christmas eve with my mom's did of the family and had dinner and Santa came. Deakon was the first one up to Santa, i think he was more curios this time. at the ward party you wouldn't have known that Santa was there. he didn't care a bit. then all the littles got to take a whack at the Santa pinata. that was entertaining ;] Santa gave Deakon his cute little reindeer hat that he kept on his head for a total of ten minutes.

My favorite part of christmas eve is going home a prepping for the morning, crawling into bed late into the night and drifting off to sleep. I was awake at like 6:00 am becasue our nieghbors stupid roosters were crowing. being the grown up i am i auto matically thought "it's christmas!" and i couldn't really fall asleep since. so I tossed and turned and rolled into Preston a few times hoping he"d wake up and sure enough he did. He rolled over and said "merry christmas" amd i knew it was game on. :] So we got up and opened our presents to one anoher whil we waited for our kid to wake up (i know we're terrible). We had to wake deakon upand bring him downstairs. As soon as he saw the lights he ran downstairs. We got him a trike, he loves it and it's still a little big for him so until he can really ride it i can push and steer him. we're going to love it on our walks come this spring.

The rest of the holiday was a whirlwind of church, Family, food, getting spoiled and feeling loved. What's not to love about the holiday's. The season is officially over and we're prepping and trying to get back into the routine before i go back to school on Monday. Ugh, we won't talk about that.

our halls are decked...

2011-12-20T08:25:00.000-08:00

The tree is up, the stockings are hung,

and this mom is still running up to town, braving the crowds and making final purchases...

My favorite thing about Christmas other than spending time with family and remembering our Savior is decorating for Christmas!

I consider shopping to be one of my great talents but right now I could do without the crazy crowds and gift searching.

We can't wait to just be able to enjoy the holiday season we're so busy preparing for.

well he's a charmer...

2011-12-16T20:56:00.000-08:00

Just like his daddy.

Thank you Jill Aponte Photography

this post is one of those posts...

2011-12-04T07:11:00.000-08:00

You know, when you're so far behind in documenting the fun and special things that occur in everyday life. You have a million pictures to share, and memories to go with them but you don't know where to begin. I can't help but feel a bit overwhelmed, and I hate that feeling, so allow me to quickly catch up...

*We went to the fair and had a blast, good greasey food, time with family, and people watching

* Obviously the petting zoo was our favorite part

*Deak was timid with the animals at first, five minutues later he seemed right at home :]

*We (Deak and I) fell in love with the puppies, hard.

* Cheering on B at all his football games

*We made t-shirts for all of us, it was fun

*They made it to the championship game, and got second

* #10 is Deakon's favorite player

* Deakon's costume was quite the hit around town, and i got dubbed a "cool mom" more than once

* We had to bribe deak with candy to keep his costume on

*Visit's to grandma's and grandpa's

*A bucket full of candy, with really no parental guidance...we were sorry about that a thrown up gob of Skittles later

*Thanksgiving in Washington, with Mom and Dad Payne and the crew

*Playing and playing with cousins

* A ferry boat ride on the exact ferry Preston proposed to me on, he has a thing for ferries.

Whew things have been busy around here, when have they not though. We are looking forward to the holiday season and making more memories. Just got finished putting the tree up and still have some small projects here and there that need finishing touches. The semester will be finishing up here soon so we're in the final push, if only I can manage to stay focused. :]

yep, it's true...

2011-10-12T05:39:00.000-07:00

(Lyssie took this pic)

team payne 2011...

2011-09-04T14:45:00.000-07:00

To say family pictures were a bit of a challenge this year would be a bit of an understatement. Trying to make a curious, hungry toddler hold still and smile just wasn't happening no matter the bribe. Of course as soon as we got outside, in true Idaho fashion the wind picked up. But we made do, and Janae out did herself again. We love them.

tooth fairy chronicles: senior year stilettos and applebee's vomit...

2011-08-27T21:22:00.000-07:00

Awkward enough title right?
*also super long post warning*
With no pictures and bad grammar mind you...If you read it all I'll be impressed.

Just finished my first week as a senior, it's funny how time changes things. Last year I would've given my right arm and a little pinky toe to have been a senior. Now I'm here. Looking back junior year seems like my favorite pair of sweat pants. Well known, reliable, and comfy. I have found out quickly that senior year is similar to a cute pair of stilettos, an enticing little package that you only have to wear for a little while longer but you can't seem to feel anything past your ankles, and walking in them is harder than it seems. A little part of me wished I could be a junior a few times through this week...

Maybe it's because the past week that Team Payne had has been like a swift kick in the pants...

Monday:
Late for the first day of school, and when I say late, I mean really late. Subsequently I could not find a parking spot and spent a good portion of time circling the university lots like and automotive shark, on the hunt for pray.

Deak woke up covered... and I mean covered in last night's dinner. He and Preston stayed home.

Tuesday:
First day of clinic (not with patients yet) and spent three hours just going over the syllabus. Overwhelming?...um, slightly. but hey, I woke up on time.

Deak still sick and having blow out dipes here and there.

Wed:
Started expanded functions clinic today. going to be filling cavity's in a patient's mouth in eight weeks. Really cool and really scary. Any Takers?

Little D seeming like he's feeling better but we were wrong, so wrong. Fool me once...

Thurs:
Three hour discussion about clinic again, this time it was about radiographs...they are going to be the death of me.

Deak bawling in the morning and me having to pry him off of my leg to leave, while holding back tears. Remember me wishing he acted like he cared at all when I dropped him off last year? Ya, I take that back. Deak being such a little social butterfly is a tender mercy from the Lord to me.

And then there was Friday:
Super long day at school.

Preston almost causing a wreck between another car and himself and Deakon. With a ladder on the freeway while going to help Lyssie and Jordan move. He managed to come away only with a broken mirror, thank heavens (another story for another time)....and then there was Applebee's.

We got a table and as soon as we sat down Deak began to color happily. We got our food like twenty minutes later and didn't even get two bites in and Deak burped the burp... you know the kind of burp when you as a mom think "this could end badly". Before I know it I'm looking at D's face thinking "Oh my hell". (Now I've dealt with this scenario before.Serving three years at Applebee's myself exposed me to the disgusting and equally emotionally embarrassing incident of child restaurant puking, but this time it was my toddler).

Catching your child's old lunch and managing to be more concerned about the little one than the gooey warm macaroni ick falling into your hands is really unconditional love ;]....poor Deak. He started bawling and Preston and I just wanted to take him home and get him feeling better. The server brought us napkins, wash cloths, to go boxes, and our check asap while I struggled to bite my tongue at all the gawking people around us. Really? Sorry if we ruined your dinner but seriously people have a little sympathy. jeesh! We headed home.

On the bright side the night ended with Deak all clean and snuggled in bed, a movie with my best friend and our bed. It's Saturday night, while writing this post the week seems somewhat comical to me. Called the Doctor today and the bug seems to be going around and we just need to wait it out. Concerning school I'm a little upset that everything I learned last year isn't fresh on the top of my mind. Obviously I need to dust off some brain cells and get back into the swing of things. It's overwhelming really, all that's left to get accomplished. Somehow it will all get done with lots of faith and prayers and re-charging of our batteries. That's what Sunday is for.

it"s been a process...

2011-08-17T12:01:00.000-07:00

This little ol' bedroom makeover of mine. Filled with tons of DIY projects, and slowly but surely it's starting to come together and look like an actual grown up bedroom.

Last year Preston let me makeover our bedroom for my birthday (best present ever) when I say this was done on a tight budget I mean, this was done on a really tight budget. He let me choose the color scheme, bed spread, and sheets and let only one little comment slip through his lips "pink?...really?...my man parts are going to run away screaming." Sooo dramatic, the pink is here to stay.

This is what it looked like after the initial makeover...

I wanted the room to have a somewhat eclectic feel to it so over time I collected treasures whenever I was lucky enough to find them. Like this bad boy...

Oh wait, i had a before picture then the old computer craped out on me. Just picture it with a nasty dirty gold frame and a beautiful serene lake scene of a picture (circa 1975). Um... not my thing. DI let me take it home for $10.00. They wanted $20.00 but that was just outrageous (is it just me or does DI think they're Nordstroms lately?) So the hubs with his persuasive personality talked them down. I got home and got right to work. Painted the frame and covered the pretty ~~ugly~~ picture with leftover fabric. Perfect substitute for a headboard. I'm currently searching for a curly willow wreath to complete the look, but no such luck yet.

This little nightstand was found randomly one day while perusing the Vintage Farm Blog. I was lucky enough to run to pocky and snag it before anyone else for $45.00. Part of me wishes it came with a twin just so I could end the night stand search all together. Although that wouldn't add to the eclectic feel I'm going for. I love it!

You know when you start a project and you think this will be amazing and then halfway into it you really start to doubt the amazingness?... Ya that was this project.

Before:

Well after stripping five layers of paint off, sanding, Priming (with paint not primer on accident) and three coats later, paining it the actual color (another three coats) and then glazing it. whew! Part of me thinks that was the biggest waste of time EVER!

Ya that was this dresser. It was my dads when he was a baby and made it rounds through the fam. All in all it turned out ok, but just ok wasn't worth the work that was put into it.

On the other hand this bad boy was worth all the sweat and finger cramps.

We snagged this at a yard sale for $27.00. I remembered half way through the process to take a before pic.

Before:

Sanded the varnish off, primed, and painted using Rustoleums Heirloom White (my new favorite white!) I had to control myself from distressing the thing before it was dry because I was so excited to see it in the bedroom. It took forever! but it's now in it's pretty little spot begging to be used. I think this is my favorite piece in the room.

After:

Preston and I found this ginormouse chest at another garage sale for $25.00. No before picture (I always get to excited to remember to take one) but I painted it black and distressed it. The one he got me for Christmas was put in Deakon's room to hold his precious things and this one holds ours.

I made the jewelery displays with inspiration from blog land. It prevents me digging through a mess of pretties in my jewelery box and puts it on display for me to admire. The earring frame was a yard sale find redone and Preston made the necklace board from scratch, the knobs were found at the Mini Bazzar.

Our room has really come together, and it has been so fun for me to collect things slowly but surely. The one thing I would probably do differently is make it a little more masculine for Prestons sake (even though he tells me he doesn't care) My favorite part is practically every thing in there can be re-done to match my next extreme bedroom make over.

yep, I already have a new color scheme in mind. I'm not telling Preston about it for a while though. This work needs to last a while. :]

geese & ducks...

2011-08-16T08:57:00.000-07:00

We needed to run some errands, and we happened to have some stale hamburger buns that were headed for the trash bin, so what did we do? ... stopped by the green belt and fed the geese and ducks.

You know when you did something as a kid and you remember it being so fun? So you can't wait to do it with your ~~baby~~ kid.

You think "this will be the best thing, my ~~baby~~ kid is going to get a kick out of this!"... Then there's a huge let down when they don't necessarily hate it, but they don't love it either. Pretty much the ~~baby~~ kid could've lived with out it and been perfectly fine?

Ya, that was Deak's reaction. I tried not to care either....

On the plus side we got rid of some old bread, got some cute pics, and spent time with one another.
Good enough for me!

summer's funeral

2011-08-10T14:50:00.000-07:00

The start of August feels like summer's funeral to me. I'm clinging on to summer with a white knuckle death grip but it's not working and my hand and head hurt. School starts back up this month, and that has everything to do with these feelings.

We have been cramming in everything on our summer "to do" list that hasn't been done yet. Last week we went to Ross Park in Pocatello. We had never been there and were pleasantly suprised. Deak had a blast as you can see. Splishing and splashing, he threw a tantrum when we started to leave, but who wouldn't?

Preston and I enjoyed our time together, we know it's fleeting. the 19th is coming to quickly and our family time will be scarce really until Christmas break (let's not talk about that, tears will well up and I just did my makeup) part of me wants school to start just to get the ball rolling and get it over with. One more year left!

Still on our summer list; family pictures, the bodies exhibit, a temple session, and the zoo.

Plus loads of hugs and kisses.

I heart my little family.

an invitation for m & t...

2011-07-22T19:41:00.000-07:00

Tuesday is a pretty big day for Mom & Todd, they're getting sealed in the Salt Lake Temple. We're so happy for them .It's a big step for this family. To celebrate I decided to make invitations for family and close friends that were invited. The invites were inspired by my little ol' necklace. They were some work for sure but totally worth it, I think they turned out pretty darn cute!

Congrats M & T.

We love you.

preston told me yesterday...

2011-07-14T07:59:00.000-07:00

"Being married on your worst day is still better than being single on your best day..."

He's a keeper.

Happy 4th anniversary babe.

front porch reveal...

2011-07-07T20:59:00.000-07:00

Summer = break from school, much needed time with family, and CRAFTS and PROJECTS for Me!

Love it!

Anywhoo, I was looking through my old posts and realized that I never finished this post. I left all (two) of my readers hanging :] The door has been finished for a while but I did a little summer sprucing up. ...as of right now it's still a work in progress. I'm finding out there is a very thin line between an attractive front porch and grandma's flamingo and pinwheel plastered place. ( Don't get me wrong, there's nothing wrong with pin wheels and flamingo's, it's just not my style)

Before:

After:

With the door I used a red color (surprise!) and then glazed it for more dimension and an aged look, the twinkle lights were found at big lots (thanks for the info Lacey) for $12.00 a box. I had wanted these type of lights for forever but whenever I had found them, they were way to much mula for a tiny box. The hanging baskets were my mothers day flowers. All in all I think it looks pretty good for little to no budget...

There's still some things I think need to happen. Hanging the star by the door, finding a cute bench and sewing some fun pillows. The big question is weather or not to paint the concrete white. I kinda want to but at the same time I kinda like the roughness of the concrete too. Luckily my landlords are pretty cool about letting me paint and add whatever. I would love some feedback on this!

the naughty spot...

2011-07-01T15:49:00.000-07:00

Being first time parents Preston and I are finding ourselves a little unprepared in the "how to discipline your toddler mode of parenting". Toddler attitude has come in full swing around our household and we have decided that right now having a "time out" spot for Deakon is the best way to handle him when he's being naughty...

Naturally, if I can spray paint or slap vinyl onto anything I'll do it and this stool was no exception. I originally wanted a chair just his size that I could re-paint and make into a "Naughty Spot" but after months of looking and not wanting to pay $30.00 for a chair (we hope not to use often) I settled for a stool. It was half off at Joann's, so I brought it home and whipped out the spray paint, distressed it a little and slapped some vinyl on the thing.

I think it's pretty darn cute, although I don't think Deak agrees with me. : ]

I realize six months or even two weeks from now this could be just a huge waste of time, and he'll sit on the stool to watch Handy Manny every morning. But as of right now though this is our plan, let's cross our fingers it works!

home alone + boredom = easter?

2011-06-18T22:08:00.000-07:00

So I'm terribly bored tonight, the whole house is spic and span, nothing is on TV, and right now all the projects on my to do list require spray paint and the outdoors. I'm sitting here waiting for Preston to come home from work. Scrolling through the 'ol blog archives (you know, because there's so many) and came upon this post and realized I hadn't posted about this year.

Part of me thinks "nope don't post it. It's to late, just move on Devry". But the mommy part that wants to document her child's every single ever loving move part of me won, and is now typing. So bear with me...

Firth Community Easter egg hunt...

Hunt's with both g-ma and g-pa

After looking at other little boy easter baskets all over blog land this mommy came to the conclusion she needs to tone down the "cuteness" factor when making things for her one and only SON.

This little dude goes 100 mph

(Little FYI; if you go 100 mph that means in an hour you will have traveled 100 miles in an hour, just so no one's confused...that's a whole other embarrassing post) 100% of the time so these pics were taken on the move...

So now that I have that out of me, and Deakster's second Easter is now on the record I guess I can go find some hidden nook and cranny to organize and clean.

a special trinket...

2011-05-31T08:39:00.000-07:00

So I must come clean, I have a slight obsession... it's ~~huge~~ tiny really. I love jewelery. I know, I know, Why don't you marry it then? I would if I could be married to Preston and jewelery at the same time. but that's a whole different post for another day.

Anywho, as I have also mentioned before I have a serious soft spot in the ol' heart for things with any kind of sentimental value. What can i say, I'm a sap.

I have accumulated over the years quite the collection of memorable jewels. My wedding ring, the circle diamond necklace Preston gave me when we were dating, or the diamond hoops that were a first anniversary gift. this mothers day though I was surprised with a special trinket (and by surprised I mean when I saw it I shrieked and told Preston about it. He in turn, surprised me with it on mother's day)

It's not covered in diamonds, nor did I wear it on my wedding day. This little necklace has a slightly different reason for meaning so much to me....

Back in 2007 I was still taking generals at ISU, I happened to be in a great institute class that happened to have an even better teacher. It was the week back from spring break in Seattle, I was coming back newly engaged and counting down the days. That class discussion coincidentally was about the sealing power that takes place between couples that enter the temple to be married. Brother Williams brought in a canning jar and explained that when a couple goes to the temple to get sealed they make a covenant with God to be with one another for eternity. Until eternity happens, what occurs? He further explained, our goal here in this life is to fill the "jar" with love, faith, service, and compassion towards one another. Always striving have a celestial marriage. Then at the end the sealing can occur, like when canning food. The actual sealing takes place when all the preserves are in it.

Brother Williams further explained creating a celestial marriage takes work on both parts, husband and wife. The day we get married is the day we covenant with the lord to do just that. Work to fill the jar. At the end, a evaluation takes place with the Lord and we are then sealed and guaranteed all the promises that were made the day we went to the Temple to be married.

I had never heard temple marriage explained that way. My whole life it was "make it to the temple", "strive to be worthy to be sealed in the temple". Now that I was engaged and that date was set, I thought then what? This lesson was for me that day. It gave me a blue print, or a game plan for my and Preston's marriage. I told Preston all about my small spiritual epiphany during our late night convo over the phone while admiring my sparkly new ring. He agreed with me and we made a promise to each other that night to fill our "jar" toward a celestial marriage. so we could be sealed to one another forever. Three almost four years later we are still praying every night to have a celestial marriage. Is our marriage perfect? NO. Are we perfect? heavens no (although I'm so close it's scary. :] ha) but we try. This special trinket is a daily reminder of constantly working hard to fill our "jar" full of love and service towards one another, and that promise we made with each other and the Lord that day. I love it.

tooth fairy chronicles: whew!...

2011-05-05T17:21:00.000-07:00

Team Payne has turned a huge page in the dental hygiene adventure book.

First year done, it's crazy to think about really.

I've learned alot this year. and when I say alot...

I mean A LOT!

See?...

(This is only the binders, behind the scenes there are text books, instruments to master, video clips, planners, and policy and procedures manuals)

All of that has been crammed into this teensey tiny little brain of mine.

Unfortunately those binders have been my closest friends for the past year.

And this little guy I'm afraid has been neglected of Mommy-Deakon time more than I'm willing to admit.

It's sad really...

But I did it, I made it through with only a few minor bumps and bruises.

No way I could have done it without amazing family and friends support.

Not to mention Preston, making it this far definitely took some major team effort and true love.

We did it.

...Just today Preston came into the living room and asked me what I was doing. When I told him "nothing" he said, "it's weird not having you trapped in our bedroom studying".

(pathetic, I know. But that has been our reality for the past year)

Now it's time for summer trips, lazy days, late spring cleaning, and lots and lots of family time.

After three more weeks of summer clinic (to get more experience) I'll officially be free!

What a relief.

This summer is going to fly by....

2011-04-23T14:18:00.000-07:00

No Lie.

little d...

2011-04-17T08:39:00.000-07:00

Who would have known...

you were going to be...

such a BUSY BODY...

At 18 months?

(All the mom's that have had toddlers knew, wish someone would've warned me)

We love you anyway... :]

sealed with a kiss...

2011-03-12T22:25:00.000-08:00

Lyssie and Jordan tied the knot back in January, we just got the pictures.

(they turned out so good)

This wedding meant a lot to me mostly for three reasons;

1. She's my only little sister

2. I wanted her wedding to be full of special memories, and not an ounce of stress...unlike mine.

(It's a long story. Let's just say the week that led to the wedding was.. well..maybe someday I'll blog about that)

3. I hate to admit it but I'm a sentimental, romantic S-A-P.

So naturally I put a lot of pressure on myself, luckily everything (hair, makeup, pictures, food, the little details) turned out perfect but not without help from a bunch of family and friends.

She's a b-e-utiful bride, and he's not to shabby either.

Together they'll make pretty babies (someday in the far, far off future)...

If I had to give them one bit of advice (ya know cause I'm so full of marital wisdom) it would be...
pray together every night no matter what.

We love you, Lyssie & Jordan

(All pictures were taken by Lindsay Lowery...amazing right?)

tooth fairy chronicles: my very own "up"...

2011-02-12T21:37:00.000-08:00

Spring semester has started once again and I find myself tired and more un-motivated than ever. This program is work ...and when I say work I mean the mentally challenging, emotionally draining, physically exhausting,... don't want to get out of bed in the morning kind of work.

The longer I'm in this program the more and more I get annoyed with certain things. For example... everything we learn has like, at least five different names. All of which we're expected to know and be able to use them interchangeably. A "quiz" in Dental Hygiene is by no means an actual quiz. It's usually a forty question test full of true false, fill in the blank, and matching questions.... I find it very misleading and highly annoying that that is considered a quiz. Seeing how this isn't a private blog I won't go into any other specifics, it's just disheartening. I feel like i try, and try and sacrifices are being made (spending time with D and Preston) but it's never good enough. It feels like I'll never catch up and stay on top.

But enough of me whining, and on to my warm fuzzy story...

Late one night Preston called me while he was on his way home and let me know he had a suprise for me, to cheer me up.... I got excited immediately and he warned me not to get my hopes up. What kind of warning is that for a surprise?

A bouquet of twenty balloons later and I was all smiles, (Balloons? I know random right but they cheered me up and Deak had the time of his life the next morning). All Preston needed was a bow tie, and a black square framed pair of glasses and I would have had my very own "UP" adventure.

Was it something sparkly, or expensive? No. It was simple and thoughtful and cute.

Where would I be without him?....

mommy moment...

2011-01-14T22:29:00.000-08:00

Deakon burned his hand today...

...On my curling iron *sigh*

One paniced rush to the sink for cold water, Aloe Vera, bandages, and a phone call to the doctor later ....

He still cried for at least thirty minutes...

He was crying, I was crying, and Preston wasn't sure how to comfort us both...

My heart hurt just as much as his tiny hand hurt and I was mad at myself for letting my jedi-mom guard down for two seconds...

As I was rocking him to sleep tonight looking over his tiny hand thinking of how hard it was to see him in pain it dawned on me...Heavenly Father had to send his son to earth knowing exactly what Christ was going to suffer, how people were going to treat him... yelled at, mocked, spit on, and crucified.

...So that we, his other sons and daughters could return to him again. I can't begin to imagine how much his heart ached, yet he was willing to let it happen, and Christ our Savior was ever so willing to endure. All for us. All for me. How grateful I am for that sacrifice. How grateful I am to be a mom, to have that special spirit entrusted to Preston and I.

I know I can't protect Deakon from all the hurt and bad in this world. This accident was the first of many (hopefully not to many). To be honest, he's ok. He's using his hand and not favoring it in anyway.(we got lucky, although tomorrow I'm probably going to take him in to get it looked at, just to make sure). It is however blistered, red and purple (I'll spare the pictures).

...The testimony that I have of the plan of salvation, and the sealing power that takes place in temples brings me comfort and helps me get through these tough mommy moments.

Heavenly Father and our Savior knew exactly what they were doing even though it was painful .....

my fingers have been busy...

2010-12-29T22:00:00.000-08:00

Just a few quick pics things I've been up to lately...

A little pretty I made to put in Lyssie's hair for the upcoming wedding.

These little lovely's were gift ideas from Kellie, for her expecting sisters Janae and Camber. I got the beads and put them together, eventually they had the new baby's ultra sound pic in the frame...Cute!

(Pink & Orange for baby Aniston, Blue & Orange for Baby Boy Lewis)

I'm just enjoying the last few weeks I have off before school starts again... Yuck.

Also, scrambling like a chicken with it's head cut off to get the wedding all put together,crossing my fingers it will all work out. I keep telling Lyss that what matters most is what happens in the temple, the rest is just noise. It calms us both down for a good five minutes. :]

to you and your family...

2010-12-23T15:38:00.000-08:00

my baby speaks parsel tongue...

2010-12-19T12:07:00.000-08:00

....Seriously he does. For those of you who have no idea what parsel tongue is....You have got to either watch the Harry Potter movies, or even better read the books...

Our days are full of wisssshes, thisssses, swissshes and other swirling slithering sounds. If only he knew what he was doing and we had a snake or two around (not really though) I could prove that Baby D is actually saying something to someone. Lately he say's a little phrase that sounds like... what's it? with a little more emphasis on the W and the S. He also says Yes, the S on the end lasts forever.

Unfortunately no normal baby sounds like Ma Ma or Da Da ever cross his lips. Just swishing snake sounds fill our little home. Do I wish he would say MaMa like a normal baby rather than sounding like a little garder snake? A tiny bit of me does. Then again he wouldn't be my baby if he did. I'll just sit and wait patiently. Does he know what he saying ...probably not. Are they the cutest sounds ever?... yes.

her nest has been feathered...

2010-12-10T22:48:00.000-08:00

Lyssie's shower was on the fourth, amidst the tests and the assignments that were due I managed to pull something together... only with the help of my mom and a handful of special lady's. Within a month we'll soon be putting all the wedding puzzle pieces together. We needed to "feather the love birds nest" before then, and boy did we ever! Cinnamon rolls, fruit and strawberry orange juice. A morning full of fun and bits of advice with family and friends, It was totally worth it...

team payne thank-a-mony...

2010-11-26T11:47:00.000-08:00

Yesterday morning before all the festivities began we took a little time as a family and had our own little Thank-a-money (as Melody likes to put it). We each wrote down things we were grateful for, big or small in a few words or less. Deakon even got in on the action (hence a few random scribbles here and there). I think we're going to make it a Team Payne annual tradition....

Hope your Thanksgiving moments were something to remember...

monkey business...

2010-11-25T07:36:00.000-08:00

Last year on Halloween no purple lights, or spooky cobwebs adorned our home. We spent it in the NICU, and taking Deak out in a tiny little newborn costume was out of the picture. I do have to give the NICU props though, When got there they had Halloween blankets in all of the babies isolates. Not to mention candy for the parents (which was a big no no, but they did it anyway). That kinda made it seem like Halloween.

...I know I'm really late with this little post, but couldn't help but post pics of our little monkey! Halloween this year was much more fun. Although Preston had to work Halloween night so it was just me and the Deaks. The night was full of trunk or treating, visiting grandparents, and aunts & uncles, and a little photo shoot! Like the good mom I am my batteries were dead as soon as I set down Deak and tried to start taking pictures. Awesome. Luckily Kellie and Janice snapped some shots for us...

Halloween 2010

The whole gang...3 Buzz Lightyears ready to save the galaxy, 2 Jesse The Cowgirls with the cutest outfits ever, 1 Woody with a snake in his boot, a adorable little Strawberry Shortcake, and the cutest Monkey ever. This crew has made Deakon feel like he's one of them... quite the bunch.

you've come a long way...

2010-10-12T17:02:00.000-07:00

From 2 lbs 3 oz, hooked up to every IV and monitor you could imagine, and calling a incubator in the NICU home...

(Priceless moment captured in the NICU at 2 lbs 9 oz.)

... Looking back on that time your dad and I thought this day would never come. Look at you at you now. Twenty-three lbs. later, pulling yourself up onto things, just weeks away from walking, filling our home with smiles and laughter, giving us kisses (only when you want too), and helping us discover a new dimension of love. Your even stuffing your face with cake... HAPPY BIRTHDAY Baby Cakes! (PS. You'll always have that nickname no matter how grown up you are).

Cake Bashing pics were taken by Caralee Case

Just wanted to mention a big Thank You to all the amazing nurses and Doctors that helped this day happen. They'll always have a special place in our hearts...

lock up your daughters...

2010-10-03T20:00:00.000-07:00

This little flirt is on the loose...

{All photos were taken by this talented woman }

All I can say is lock up your daughters... :]

the tooth fairy chronicles: pity parties, and tender mercies...

2010-09-19T12:30:00.000-07:00

I sit here typing amidst strewn out papers, random highlighters, and models of teeth and all I can think about is "what tests I have coming up?", "what's the best way to study for this?", and "oh I've got to practice that". My brain hurts and I'm questioning why on earth I wanted to do this?
I'm the type of person who needs balance. Balance in my home, balance with my hobbies, balance with my hubby, and most importantly right now balance with my baby. For the past month I have had to have tunnel vision on DH (Dental Hygiene) and only DH. The house is not clean (my kind of clean), I have the worst creative itch going on and I can't do anything about it, and Deak is growing up without me. Yesterday while I was allowing myself a ten minute coma between studying I woke up to Deak up on side of the couch tugging on my sweatshirt string. I was shocked, he pulled himself up! Preston was sitting there and I looked at him like "look at our baby!" he did the same, but only to spare my feelings. I could tell this wasn't Deaks first time doing it and Preston didn't have the heart to tell me that. My heart sank in my chest and immediately I blamed school. I know I brought this on myself and I know that it will payoff in the end. I'll have even more time to spend at home with my babies later. Blah blah blah. Right now the bigger picture is so far away...So yesterday amidst me throwing myself a pity party I received a few tender mercies from the Lord. I'm so thankful for the people in my life that are huge examples to me, who listen to the spirit and are willing to pause their busy life to help a girl like me. My Heavenly Father loves me, I know he does. I have a loving husband who I wouldn't survive without, and amazing family and friends. I promise not to blog about dental hygiene all the time (seriously...boring). I'll be surprised if I have time to blog much at all. Heck I'm surprised I've taken ten minutes to jot this down. I'm slowly realizing that I'm not going to be able to cuddle with Preston every night while watching a good show, or I'm not going to be able to craft and be creative very often. My house won't be neat and tidy exactly how I like it, and I'm not going to be able to go the extra mile for the special things happening in Deaks life right now (which is killing me). I'm being forced to simplify. Simplify and find joy in the journey. Somehow.

the tooth fairy chronicles...

2010-08-27T22:19:00.000-07:00

{Apple cupcakes for a back to school BBQ...Cute huh?}

That's right... back to school. I don't really have much to say about it. Frankly because I'm tired of thinking. For the past week I've ate, slept, and breathed Dental Hygiene. To sum it up in one word it's T-O-U-G-H. I'm just excited to be in the program and look forward to actually getting in their (the mouth) and doing stuff.

We have survived this week amidst a complete computer meltdown (like everything gone. including Deaks and new family pictures gone..all of them ) and a few meltdowns of my own...

The Funnest part so far has been getting to know all the girls that I'll be spending all day every day with and learning, and learning and learning. The hardest part has been shifting from a stay at home mom and wife into a 21 credit student. I want this so bad, but not being with Deak during the day is killing me. I just have to remember that we're doing this for him. He knows I'm his mommy and that will never change, with time it will get easier. Right now it's just about survival...

Wish me luck and keep us in your prayers...please. :]

10 months...

2010-08-21T07:31:00.000-07:00

10 months...Holy cow!

We love you little one.

team payne 2010...

2010-08-18T08:58:00.000-07:00

{Janae took these awesome pics, she's the best...Thanks Nae.}

Just a quick collage of a few of my favorite pictures taken...love them.

the girls in slc....

2010-08-17T07:43:00.000-07:00

So this past weekend the girls (mom, Lyssie, and I) packed up and headed for a much needed girls weekend in SLC. With a lot of shopping, eating, laughing, people watching, heart to hearts, and walks down memory lane. Did I get any pictures? NO. I drug my camera around in my purse (I'm trying to always have it on me in hopes I'll take more pics) but never got it out. Pathetic... I know.

Some highlights of the trip were:

1. Seeing Keith Bryce from (Project Runway Season 5) in Forever 21 at The Gateway. Alyssa actually got to meet him. Only because I told her it was him and she didn't believe me. So she went up and asked. Sure enough it was. I was a little peeved I didn't go bother him with her (and if any picture was to be taken on this trip that should've been the one).

2. Spending at least two hours in hobby lobby. I had never been but it was like the mother ship of crafting was calling me home...I love that place.
3. Singing at the top of our lungs and dancing in the truck on the road.

4. Crawling into our beds at 11:30 PM after a full day of shopping.

5. Getting a famous "apple pie" caramel apple at Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory (sooo good).

6. Finding "The Dress" for Alyssa's wedding. Can't believe my little sis is getting married!

That's the main reason why we went down. She only went to one shop and my mom called the dress it would be before Lyss even put it on. It fits her to a T. It's so pretty, with a little spunk just like lyssie. We're excited for her and Jordan. She couldn't have found a guy that could treat her any better. Congrats guys.

Lastly..Thanks mom for the fun trip! ...Love you.

splish splash...

2010-08-04T09:54:00.000-07:00

...Just me and the Baby Cakes today, dad had to work. So what do we do?

Break out the pool!

{Poor ducky, fell victim to Deakon's teething}

Slpishing and splashing and taking a few face plants...

not to mention a bunch of big gulps of water.

A little sad that the fun is over (cute)...we'll see you again tomorrow little pool.

jungle baby...

2010-07-28T10:21:00.000-07:00

So When Deakon was born he stayed in the hospital for eight weeks. I didn't really get into the nesting phase of my pregnancy until after he was born. When I wasn't at the hospital I was working in the nursery (that I originally thought I had plenty of time for :] ) When he came home everything was a whirlwind and posting about the nursery was forgotten about. Well I've made some finishing touches and I think it's about done.

The after:

1. I used some of the decorations from the baby shower. Janae made this super cute banner and there was no way I was throwing it away. So on the wall it went.

2. Decided to go with brown and green walls. It went well with the jungle theme.

3. The crib was given to us from Mom and Dad Payne, my mom bought the cute bedding.

4. Found these cute little wooden animals at Micheal's for like 50 cents.

5. Yes we do have two chairs. Why? No room in the living room for the big one so we made due. The rocking chair was a gift from my dad...so comfy!

6. View from opening the door. So bright and cheery!

Little Details:

1.Paper lanterns found online for really cheap, and I strung them from cute ribbon from the Ribbon Retreat.

2.The chest was bought for me and handed down to Deak to keep sentimental stuff through the years. The small giraffe print box holds the small things from the NICU. The tiger was given to him from Grandpa Kenny and was his isolate buddy in the hospital.

3. Diaper cake on top of dresser we refinished.

4. I made these out of scrapbook paper and canvases, the idea for the saying was found here. Love it.

5.Covered the "D" with scrapbook paper and hung from ribbon on door.

6. Beautiful Jesus Christ picture that hangs on the wall above Deakon's crib.

7. Lion handed down from Aunt Lyssie, goes well with the theme and is bigger than Deak. He'll have fun playing with it soon!

finger foods...

2010-07-22T16:04:00.000-07:00

They're slimy, mushy, and certainly messy....

but that is what makes them fun for Baby D...not so much for mommy.

i believe in marriage...

2010-07-14T09:03:00.000-07:00

(Pure Bliss as Mr. & Mrs.)

I believe what matters most is what lasts the longest.

I believe that marriage is the first step, the first adventure, the first everything

to a long eternity with your best friend.

I believe healthy, happy, long lasting marriages can exist in this day and age.

I believe that marriage takes team work, give and take, and 100% unselfishness.

I believe that it takes hard work and dedication to have a happy marriage.

I know that marrying Preston was the most thought out, spiritually guided, best decision I have ever made.

I know that getting sealed for eternity to Preston was the most sacred experience in my life.

I believe that I have hit my mushy/corny/cheesy limit with this post.

Happy third anniversary Preston, I love you.

payne-a-palooza...

2010-07-08T09:44:00.000-07:00

We spent the holiday weekend with Preston's family. The whole family was finally in one place at one time with their kids. We kept busy the entire time. We went to a parade, fireworks, had our own fireworks, went shopping (my favorite), went swimming, did some sidewalk chalk art, had family pics taken, celebrated a birthday, and ate and ate and ate (whew!)....

The weekend was full of picture perfect moments but being the great photographer I am I only caught a few... (I'm lucky I remembered the camera and that it had fully charged batteries in it).

Deakon made it through about thirty seconds of the parade and then zonked out. He even slept through the firetruck horns, shotguns, and tractors. I was a little surprised but he had no idea what was going on so it was ok.

Bhule has a firework show we went to. It definitely wasn't the "Melaleuca Freedom Celebration" but it was entertaining to say the least. Plus we didn't have to deal with ~~weird people~~ crowds, traffic, and we had the best spot ever (we didn't have to camp out all day to keep it either).

(I soo wish Deakon could sit up on his own...I'm tired of having his dads arms in all the pics.)

To keep the kids entertained Kariann bought a gi-normose box of sidewalk chalk. I had some fun with it too. Kariann wrote the kids names on the fence and Anthony pulled me over there and showed me that he had added Deakon's name. "It's spelled wrong Aunt Devry, because I didn't know how to spell it"....such a sweet little boy.

...All in all it was a fun weekend. Preston and I agreed that the best part was stepping back and observing all the action. Watching how the siblings (who now all have little budding families) interact with their own kids, their spouses, and each other. We don't get to see the family often enough so it's always hard to say goodbye. We already miss them...

one fish, two fish, red fish, blue fish...

2010-07-02T10:58:00.000-07:00

Last saturday I bought Deakon a little blue swimsuit. So come Monday we decided to try it out.

Deaks first time swimming and he jumped right in! (well, not literally) ....

He would splash and kick and I thought for sure if he got water in his face it would be the end of it.

It didn't even phase him.

Janae and Libby came with us it was a blast.

Sign of a good swim is wrinkly toes!

I love my little blue fish...

little pretties....

2010-06-23T15:51:00.000-07:00

Lately I have fallen in love with making these little pretties.... It's surprisingly relaxing to me to sit down and make a mess with fabric, beads, thread, and glue. I think it's because the finished project is so cute! For a while Janae and I would sit together for hours making things to keep ourselves entertained while our hubby's were at work {she's made some really cute ones. I'm sure she would show you...If she ever updated her blog!}.

They're fun, colorful, and pretty. I put them pretty much on anything...purses, diaper bags, necklaces, scarves, headbands, baby hats, or just clip them in your hair...easy peasy. I love making them to match outfits and thinking of new color combos...

These are fun on elastic headbands but I've put them on hard headbands too....

{Close up too see all the little details...}

This necklace is definitely a statement necklace...It's pretty big but anyone who knows me isn't surprised :] I just wear it with a plain white tee and jeans.

{details, details...}

I didn't make this necklace :] I did however make a few little pretties to clip on to it....

If I had a girl, I know I would be making such things to match every single one of her outfits.

{God knew Preston and I,... and our budget needed a little boy}

I'm crossing my fingers that Janae has a girl. That way I can make her pretty things...

and Deakon can have an arranged marriage... :]

who would've known?...

2010-06-21T12:40:00.000-07:00

That this guy would make such a great dad....

{I knew...that's why I married him.}

And he learned it all from this guy....

Deakon is one lucky boy....

jumping bean....

2010-06-15T20:46:00.000-07:00

Deakon got a new toy about a week ago and he loooves it...

& it was worth every penny!....

so... i kinda love polka dots....

2010-05-31T13:40:00.000-07:00

Last week my mom and I were in Deseret Book of all places and I saw a super cute container that would look perfect filled with flowers in my home. I really wanted it. It was black and had white polka dots allover. It was calling my name. Unfortunately it was pretty pricey for a empty container {$25 bucks...really?}. My mom saw the little devil and angel Devry on each shoulder and quickly whispered "You could do that yourself. Don't waist your money". So I left it there for some other person to snatch. When I got home I remembered these....

There they were hiding in plain sight. So I got busy....

...with a little craft paint and the end of a paintbrush...

...I now have my very own containers. I love them! They tie in with the other polka dot accents around my home, and the best part is they were free-fifty-free!

a few of my faves...

2010-05-22T17:51:00.000-07:00

...Just a few of my favorite snapshots of Little Squish...

i'm annoyed....

2010-05-10T16:23:00.000-07:00

This....

{icky clouds & wind}

is keeping me from finishing this....

and I'm annoyed....

leading ladies....

2010-05-09T11:00:00.001-07:00

...It's mother's day. My very first mother's day. I've learned a lot in the past six months since joining the "Mommy Hood". I have a feeling that will never change :]. The greatest thing I've learned is a new chapter of love. One that I never knew I had in me. I wouldn't consider myself a selfish person but when I wanted to do something, I did it. When I wanted to get something I bought it. When Deakon was born my needs were put on hold, and I was completely ok with that. He was all that mattered. In fact I would go hours without eating {and If you know me, you know that never happens :]}. When he came home Little Squish taught me that I didn't need a full nights sleep his tummy was rumbling, or it was possible to wait another half hour before I make my own lunch. I guess it's the same love just a different version.

The past few months of slowly learning the in's and outs of motherhood has led me to reflect on the Leading Ladies in my life. All the sacrifices and unselfish acts they made to raise me right. And the endearing little habits that I grew to love and admire.

Great Grandma No No:

No No is a nickname given to her from little grandkids after I was in my twenties. It fits her perfectly. We all at one time or another heard "no no" in such a gentle, but stern voice. While we slyly reached for a nick nack we knew not to touch. As I got older I would mow her gi-normouse lawn in the summers. Each time I did I could count on Grandma No No to bring me lemonade and a PB & J sandwich. I'm so happy she's still around to be able to have held my little baby.

Grandma Kathy:

I don't think you could find another woman who loves animal print and diamonds more than this one. She's full of attitude and spunk. Loves to give many hugs and lipstick kisses. Knows how to decorate a home and throw a party. Rarely have I ever seen her without her "face" on {as she likes to put it}, always put together and dressed for the occasion. I think I get my love of interior design from her and I know that's where I get my love of rhinestones, sequins, and diamonds. She always has a nickname for her grand kids some more normal than others: Sweet Heart, Tiger Buns, Pickle, and... Sugar Puss.

Grandma G:

{Grandma G and I at four days old}

Grandma G's house was the place to be growing up {maybe because she practically babysat all of her grandkids at one time or another} there was always something going on there. Summers full of playing outside, and lunches of Country Time Lemonade or Tang accompanied with tuna fish sandwiches or "weenies" {hot dogs} as she called them. That always made us snicker. She would take us shopping to good ol' Kings and we would always get a treat. Oh... that's another thing, the treat bowl. Always full to the brim stocked with the best candies for us and a few favorites of her's {Swedish Fish & Red Raspberry's}. I love this woman. She's the only grandma that's not around anymore and I miss her every day.

Lyssie Loo:

Now she's no grandma or mother yet, but my little sister is a one of a kind lady. She's my bestie and has through the years taught me a lot of patience, to always look on the bright side, and be nice to everybody. I love being her big sister and wouldn't change any of the challenges we have have endured together. I can't wait to see her get married and take on all the experiences that being a wife and mother bring. She'll face it head on and always with a smile.

My Mom:

My mom has no certain nickname but she has the best title ever "Mom". She's mine and I wouldn't trade her in for anything else. 100% positive. She has always been a beautiful example of righteousness and womanhood. I built my own testimony of the gospel through hearing hers and learning from her example. I love her to the core. She is always full of good advice while struggling through the hard times. She's tough and can get through anything. I have seen her do it. I look up to her. She also has a fun silly side. I love her for that to. I love her voice, her smile, the way she does her hair, her little comments to me when I'm not in a good mood. She's always spunky and cheerful. I love her laugh.

....My only hope for being a mother is that I become a hodge podge of all of these special ladies in my life and perfect it in a way that's all my own. So that Deakon {and all my future little babies} will grow up to love me as much as I love all the leading ladies in my life.... Happy Mother's Day.

mother's day trinkets....

2010-05-06T09:46:00.000-07:00

... Now I might be biased but these are super cute and easy too make. I saw this idea on the little ol' blog Brown Paper Packages. I'm posting about it already because my mom ruined her surprise by walking into my house mid construction. She somehow always finds out what she's getting, it drives me crazy. I'm only crossing my fingers that my mom-in-law {Suzette}doesn't check my blog until after she gets hers. I'm sure she doesn't check it very often and they're already in the mail.

....They're little brag books, small enough to be lugged around in a grandma's purse. Made out of little name badge holders, book rings and scrapbook paper. Stuffed with cute pics of Deakon.

Along with the Moms, I sent them to my Grandma's as well. Its' nothing big but they say Mom's love all things homemade by their little ones. I hope these count :]....

six month stats....

2010-04-30T17:24:00.000-07:00

Well it's the end of April and Deakon is now a whapping six months old. One thing we had to understand about Deakon being so premature was, he had a lot of catching up to do compared to a term baby. The doctor's told us that he would be a little slow developmentally for the first little while of his life. So we have learned not to compare him to other babies. He's not like other babies, and technically he's only four months old. With that, when we go to the doctor we don't bother paying attention to what percentile he fits into, and all that other mumbo jumbo. We just focus on how much weight he has gained and what he has accomplished so far....

....Right now Deak is weighing in at 15 lbs. 2 oz. and is 26.5 inches long. He has the head control down, and thinks he's Mr. Independent because he can sit up. He just hasn't mastered staying up. :] He loves to chew on his thumb and pointer finger {don't worry he doesn't suck on them} and drools EVERYWHERE. He is the only baby I have seen that literally can't stand to spit up. He tries to swallow it every time {which is even more gross than just spitting up}. He smiles a ton and can laugh, but only for Preston {I'm not to happy about that part}It's so cute, it's our favorite thing he does. He also is a bit like his mommy and jabbers a lot. He'll tell you a story anytime. He's sleeping through the night {Yahooo!}and sleeps really good in his crib. He really is a happy baby and hardly fusses at all. Recently he's started eating baby food, lets just say it was an adjustment. Now we can't shovel it in his mouth fast enough...Oh, and he rolled over once! The happening was caught on camera. We were told however {by Grandma Stacia}, that it doesn't count because he couldn't get his arm out from under him. We disagree :]. He hasn't done it since though. Also in the past six months he has acquired many nicknames from many different people. We call him: Peanut, Mr. Mr., Deak, Deakster, and Boo Boo. Aunt Lyssie calls him Squish. Then there's Little Dude {Uncle B}, Bubba Chum {Grandma Stacia}, and the Man Cub (Grandpa Kenny}. I'm sure this won't be the end of them either...

....We love him the mostest! We are so blessed to have his little spirit in our home. He has brought Preston and I true happiness and a greater understanding of our purpose in this life. We love you little Squish, always have always will...

the payne rice cereal killer....

2010-04-21T15:25:00.000-07:00

Green beans, peas, bananas, and peaches be on the look out....

the Payne Cereal Killer is on the loose....

he's sweet, charming, and most of all cute....

don't be fooled, he can make a mean mess of things....

and the only way he'll eat rice cereal is if it's flavored with fruits or veggies....

he might be a Cereal Killer but we love him nonetheless....fruits and veggies consider yourself warned.

frame redo....

2010-04-14T10:17:00.000-07:00

I love me a cute frame. I especially love it when I can get one for super cheap and make it my own! I found this frame in the clearance area @ Walmart. Only $2.00! I snagged that thing up as soon as I saw it.

I picked up a can of Krylon "Ballet Slipper" pink spray paint {have I mentioned my undying love for spray paint}. After it was painted I was trying to decide where I wanted to put it, and I wanted it up on the wall but it didn't have the little hangy bar thing {I'm sure that there's a better name for it} on the back that would allow it to. A quick trip to Home Depot solved that issue. I turned it vertically so I could put pictures in it the landscape way. Finally.... I just had to figure out how to get rid of that crack that was in the middle....Ribbon! {I love ribbon too}

....I like how it turned out, just not sure if I want to distress it or not?

*Update: I decided to distress the frame and I love it!...I also found a new love of using tinted glaze on most of my projects. It's my new craft bestie.

See...

I've been trying to find things to better accsessorize our bedroom. I love the progress I've made on it but it just didn't feel like it was finished. So....I've been busy :] ....More projects to come soon! {Just need to finish the little odds and ends first.}

easter sunday last year....

2010-04-04T16:50:00.000-07:00

Now I'll be honest, was it planned?....No. But was it a very welcomed surprise?....Definitely.

Easter Sunday this year....

....It's funny how time flies by. One year can make a huge difference in a person's life. One year ....one measly little year. This year has been trying and at times down right tough. We are continually blessed by our Heavenly Father. We love where we are at right now, we love our little apartment in Firth {so close to family and friends}. But most of all we love our baby Deakon, our little Easter surprise.

...you don't have to brush all your teeth, only the ones you want to keep....

2010-04-01T17:08:00.000-07:00

{cute pic from iCLIPART}

... So Team Payne has some very exciting news!... After three years of applying I finally got into ISU's Dental Hygiene Program. I really thought I had about a snowballs chance in Hell of getting in.....looks like Hell's frozen over! Preston and I are so excited for the opportunity I have to finish my education in something I have wanted to do for so long.

....So what does this mean for our little family? ....Some big big decision making. We have realized that our timing and the Lord's timing are two completely different things. The day before I got the good letter in the mail Preston had a job interview in Seattle. It's a good job, with good hours, and most importantly good BENEFITS! The downside {for my family} was it's location. Now we haven't heard if he got the job yet but I can't imagine them not giving it to him {maybe because I'm his biggest fan :]}. For right now we're just focused on being happy and grateful. We'll figure everything out when we need to... {I can't imagine turning this opportunity down though}.

girlie drill....

2010-03-29T10:37:00.000-07:00

Lately with all the unfinished projects I have around the house and all the prospective projects floating around in my head I've decided that I need to get me a DRILL...

....Now I know where to go to get my hands on one but it's all boring, and manly. I want mine to be pink, and possibly covered in some bling. :] Is that to much to ask?....

little guy....well not as little....

2010-03-15T17:07:00.000-07:00

The time has come for me to pack up all of Deakon's "grown out of" clothing. They are taking up all of his dresser space and are just in the way. It's hard to imagine now how little he actually was, although he's still pretty small. Three month size clothes are getting to be a little snug, but six month clothes drowned him. He's five months old and weighing in at 13 lbs. 2 oz.{every once matters :] }....

I realized as I folded them up and put them away that I have gotten attached to these tiny little outfits. Deakon's only going to continue to get bigger. The bigger he gets the less he'll want to snuggle and be cuddled by his mommy :( . Is it selfish of me to want him to stay this little? I know it's not realistic but I can wish can't I?....

It's crazy how small these little things really are, and to think that he had to grow into that preemie shirt...

{The diaper box helps put the actual size into perspective....}

.... Our cute little guy. Your mommy wants you to stay that way....

seattle, a ferry, and some bling.....

2010-03-09T09:19:00.000-08:00

....Today is March 9th. A Tuesday. A seemingly boring day. Not for Preston and I though. March 9th 2007 was a day that both of us will never forget. Preston asked me to marry him three years ago today. I think it's always fun to hear other couples engagement stories. Each story is like a snowflake. Not one of them are alike but each one is perfect. {and if for some reason it wasn't perfect it's a story none the less :]}
....Our story starts off in Seattle, and ends on a Ferry....

{Cue the sappy romantic music in your head...}

{A not so good pic of the city at the top of the Space Needle.}

The whole time Preston and I dated it was a long distance relationship. He was in Washington and I was stuck in Idaho. So when we got really serious I would fly over there once every other month or so. For Valentine's Day he bought me a plane ticket and we went looking for rings that entire weekend {talk about a good weekend}. He didn't propose to me then though {I was rather disappointed}. The next month was full of anticipation until I got to see him again. The whole week before Preston kept talking about how he had planned a hike for us that Saturday. ICK! If you know anything about me you know I hate hiking, Preston loves it. So I was thinking to myself "Great I'm going to have to climb up a stupid mountain, all tired and sweaty just to get that ring." Double ICK! When I got there on Friday we went to Seattle for the day. We went shopping, to Pikes Place, P.F. Chang's for dinner {Yummy}, and to the Space Needle {you would think he would've done it there....nope}. On the way home we caught the Ferry. It was late, and outside it was dark, cold, and of course wet. Preston wanted to go to the top balcony. I argued with him, complaining that it was to cold and rainy. He Persisted. {Did I catch on at this point?....NO.} I gave in, so we went up there and snuggled. Preston stood behind me and wrapped his arms around me to keep me warm. The entire time Preston was whispering sweet memorable nothing's in my ear, but I was to distracted by the view and my shivering to really take them in. I soon realized there was ring box in front of my face and he whispered in my ear "Devry will you marry me?". I was in total and complete shock. So much so that I turned around to face him & said "shut up". He smiled, I cried and said "yes". He teared up a little too. I was no longer cold or wet :]. And I didn't have to go on a stinky sweaty hike either.

{On the monorail from the mall to the space needle.}

....The perfect proposal from the perfect man for me. Was there a flashing banner at a football game? No. A 1000 daisies all over the place and candles every where? No. He didn't even get down on his knee. But I honestly wouldn't have had it any other way. I love you eternally Preston.

{Do I have any Pics of the actual moment?... No. Too busy hugging and kissing....}

....So what's your story?...

birthday bedroom...

2010-03-04T21:11:00.000-08:00

.... So a few posts ago I wrote that Preston let me makeover our bedroom for my birthday present. It took awhile but it's finally coming together. I still have some little things here and there to finish {i.e. vinyl on the walls in areas and frames to fill with pictures} but the grunt work is finished....

.... Now I didn't get a before picture because my "little helper" {Preston} was so fast at taking everything apart and clearing out the room to be painted. That's OK though....Just imagine Lilac walls and Brown and turquoise bedding {needless to say it didn't match}....

....Here's the after!...

....I love the bed spread, and Preston even let me get pink sheets! Although not before having a brief discussion about his fear of his man parts falling off & running away {so dramatic}....He loves me.... If the table cloths on the night stands look brown.... it's because they are. I can't find black ones to save my life {I'm thinking about dying them}.

....Painted another shelf....

....These were fun to make 8x8 frames with our baby pics in them. I just need to get the one in the middle filled with a pic of Deakon. {"Vale La Pena" is a little family saying, it means "it's worth it". Preston use to tell this to me a lot when we were dating and it's stuck ever since.}

....I also wanted the lamps not to have plain white lamp shades. I saw and fell in love with some damask lamp shades on the internet but they were like $30.00 each, which was so not going to happen. So a little fabric and good ol' liquid stitch and whallah! Almost the same thing.... right? :]

....I'm definitely no professional but I think our bedroom turned out pretty good. It was so fun to get to put everything together. One of my favorite things to do is to turn a house into our home. Thanks babe for the fun birthday present....

...happy love day....

2010-02-15T14:27:00.000-08:00

....I love valentine's day. I love the colors, the decorations, the candy, the hearts, the flowers, & of course the reason to celebrate. This year was a low key celebration, Sunday requires Preston to be in meetings practically all day long. So we just hung out as our little team and watched lovey movies and had breakfast for dinner. I attempted to make heart shaped pancakes.... but they didn't turn out {hence the absence of those pictures :]}. Preston surprised me with a sweet little something; roses, my favorite treat, and a mushy card {just the kind wives love to get}.All in all it was a fun day. I love my husband he's definitely a keeper and I only hope that I show him how thankful I am for him every day...

little ugly....

2010-02-08T15:20:00.000-08:00

....In my kitchen lived this ugly blank spot right above the stove. I have hated this spot since we moved in. Just boring, blank, and white begging to be decorated. But I had no idea what to put up there. A picture (my easy blank spot fixer) could possibly get all greasy and would look kind of out of place. Then my love of shelves popped into my head. So I headed to the DI (They always have some pretty good treasures)....And I found this little ugly in need of some love....

....Just some paint, random sanding to distress it, and some ribbon love and whalla!....
Cute shelf just the perfect size, right above my stove, waiting to be accessorized.

....Love It! (and for only $4.00)

....24 & 29....

2010-02-02T05:39:00.000-08:00

....January has come and gone and so have both of our birthdays. Our birthdays are five days apart, Jan 26th and Jan 31st. {Oh, a little un-known factoid Janae and Travis' B-days are also five days apart but in July....WEIRD} I've always thought that birthdays were a big deal.{ I tell Preston all the time that I think it should be a birthweek rather than a birthday} I think it's because ever since I was little I would have like five parties for my little ole' birthday. One for my family, one for my mom's side and two on my dad's then of course a friend party (~~spoiled~~ blessed, I know). As I got older though that craziness died down. Then I married Preston. Who's birthday is only days after mine, so the craziness ensued. We celebrate from my birthday to his. Now it's never five crazy parties outlandish, but we do celebrate with each other. A night out to dinner, and presents with cake. Eventually celebrations with family later. We overdose on cake and ice cream and get spoiled....

....This year Preston spoiled me with an opportunity to make over our bedroom! bedspread, paint, lamps, and all.I'll have to post pics when it's complete {It's quite the process}....He also cleaned the whole house. Top to bottom all by himself.... while I sat on my rear and crafted. He's a Keeper! We went out to Sizzler for dinner {Random, I know but we needed a change and Preston had never been there before}Janae and Travis came with us....

....I got Preston a new X-Box game, a year of X-Box live, and two movies he wanted. We had a good week, full of partying and fun. It's definitely a once a year bash....

when preston grows up he wants to be....

2010-01-24T06:53:00.000-08:00

.... Just like every little boy Preston has had the childhood fantasy of becoming a cop. Hunting down the bad guys and helping the good. He has bachelor's degree in communications with a minor in business management. He's been told that that's excellent for law enforcement. Although when I met Preston he was looking to become a Public Relations expert for a hotel resort or a casino. As we were dating and getting to know one another he had always talked about how neat it would be to be a cop, working as DEA, SWAT, or for the FBI. I thought "ya that fits you. you're good with dealing with people, your bilingual, you can be very persuasive, you don't get angry easy, and you would look good in a uniform :]. But you're not serious right?" He would reassure me that he wouldn't want to have that high risk of a job unless it was ok with his wife. I assured him if I was his wife it wasn't ok. Selfish I know but I tend to be a worry wart in the first place, and just the thought that my best friend could possibly get shot at (or worse) daily makes me want to pull my eyelashes out!...

....Looks like I'll be needing to invest in some fake eyelashes!... Come February 6th he'll be testing in Seattle to become a Washington State Police Officer. As months went by and no PR job opportunities were coming in Preston and I re-evaluated his career choices. He wants to do something that he will love. Something that won't get old or boring and law enforcement is calling his name (so he says). We've prayed about it and feel like it's the right thing for our little team. So the process has begun... am I looking forward to the late nights of worrying? NO. I am however looking forward to having a husband that does something he loves (not to mention the uniform!) ;] ....We'll keep you posted.

team payne's goals....

2010-01-20T10:55:00.000-08:00

As a kick off to the new year "Team Payne" sat around one night for FHE and decided that we needed to have some focused goals to reach for. We will always have the same eternal goal; to return to our Father in Heaven. Sometimes though I feel like it's the small goals that get forgotten. It's the small goals that keep us grounded and centered, and help us to reach the overall goal. So as an FHE activity we sat around and set goals for our little team that we think we can achieve. ...So far...um...well...let's just say we're grateful for new beginnings :] But we're hanging in there! I can already tell it's making a difference....

...blessing day...

2010-01-14T14:05:00.000-08:00

I've always gone to church and listened to baby blessings and thought that that day was a long way from happening to me. Even when Preston and I got married it still seemed like forever. The Sunday we blessed Deakon I was kind of in unbelief. We decided to bless him the sunday after Christmas. Preston's parents had come to visit us then. We wanted to do the traditional blessing and then dinner with friends and family. Unfortunatly since Deakon is a preemie we had been told to keep him in our home away from germs at all times until APRIL (it's going to be a long winter)! So we decided that we would just bless him during sacrament, then bring him home, and just be with each other. We had family and friends there all supporting Deakon. It was perfect. Preston was a little nervous about the blessing but he did great. It was a beautiful blessing. That day I couldn't help but feel so grateful for Deakon and the wonderful spirit he brings in our home. Heavenly Father has continually blessed Preston and I. Maybe not with the blessings we think we need but somehow we are always taken care of. I'm so thankful and excited to be a Mom. I only hope that i'm a good one. I wouldn't want to break this cute little guy!... :]

christmas snapshots....

2010-01-07T10:14:00.000-08:00

Christmas '09 was crazy busy (who's wasn't?). Deakon's first Christmas was full of family and friends and gifts. To bad he had no idea what was going on, it will be fun as he gets older! Here are a few snapshots from the crazy day....

....These are the only two snapshots I got from that morning. My camera's batteries died. I even charged them on the Monday before just to be prepared. Christmas morning came and I had to recharge them after these pics. I was not a happy camper!....

Santa brought Deakon a swing!... he loves it.

He even left him a note....

We had a full day of running here and there, accompanied with tons of yummy food and playing games....

All of us (minus Coltyn & Brett) at mom's....

Grandpa and Deakon Zonked out after a full day of gift opening...cute!

We blessed Deakon the Sunday after Christmas,
Luckily Grandma Suzie and Grandpa Kirk came down too!

We have many things to be grateful for this Christmas season.
We are so happy Deakon is home and is doing so well.
We are also grateful for our Savior, Jesus Christ and his love for us.
Hope your Christmas season was just as great!....

...just because...

2009-12-23T18:59:00.000-08:00

lions, and tigers, and bears...oh boy!

2009-12-18T09:09:00.000-08:00

Janae and Alyssa threw together one of the cutest showers I have ever seen. All for little Deakon {Man he's loved!} My Mom hosted it at her place, Alyssa thought of the cute theme, and Janae orchestrated all of the specifics. Here are some of the cute details....

Cute diaper cake and invitation on the refreshment table....

The yummy coconut lemonade...

The shower was in the morning so muffins, fruit and dip was served....

{Notice the cute Safari themed muffins, like Chocolate Chunky Monkey, and Blue Beary}

Everything put together with the cute banner behind it....

Deakon's crib held all the gifts....

{Mom gave him the bedding. Cute huh!}

The cute blanket that the Anthony Family made....

Aunt Lyssie gave Deakon this cute little rooster and me a very welcomed pedicure gift certificate....

Some of the girls that made it....

Preston's Mom flew in from Seattle and came down with his sister LaRee. They completely surprised me and it was so much fun to have them there....

Janae and Alyssa went all out and threw one of the cutest showers I've ever seen and all of it was for Deakon....

{Thanks Girlie's}

....a person's a person, no matter how small...

2009-10-25T16:48:00.000-07:00

Deakon K Payne made his grand entrance to this world at 11:16 A.M. on October 12th 2009. Weighing in at 2 lbs 9 oz., 15 and 1/2 inches long. He was born 9 weeks early due to a condition called pre-eclampsia. Which I had no idea that I had. Honestly to tell the truth Monday morning was a scary morning. I woke up around 6:30 with pain that felt like what could be contractions, and a blinding headache. I laid in bed and tried to sleep with the pain but it was to much so I got up and headed out the bedroom door with my pregnancy book in hand. The next thing I know is I have people asking me if I know who I am, and where I am, and I heard something about an ambulance. Come to find out I ended up having a seizure due to my spiking blood pressure. Preston and Alyssa found me on the floor while siezing and called 911. The ambulance rushed me to ERIMC and the next thing I remember, my water broke and I was being prept for an emergency C-section. Long story short the Pre-eclampsia occured within a two week period between my doctor's appointments. I had an appointment that monday morning at eleven. I've been told that it's treatable with bed rest, the extreme condition is turning into ecclampsia and seizing, which is what happened. The doctors told me that if I hadn't seized we would have lost Deakon. my blood pressure was so high it was blocking the blood flow from my placenta to the baby.
So out of a really bad situation we are slowly recovering and have gotten the best case scenario. Deakon is doing great for a preemie, he's breathing on his own and isn't attached to any Ivy's any more, and he's even gained three ounces weighing in at a whopping 2 lbs. 12 oz.! He's still being fed through a tube in his nose but he's handling the feeding's well. They say he won't come home until his due date, Dec. 15th. That's been the hardest part of all of this, leaving him there. And dealing with the guilt of having to leave him there. But I have to tell myself that he's getting better care there than Preston or I could give him right now.
We have learned many things from this experience. Preston and I are truly blessed by our Heavenly Father. We feel like Deakon is our little tender mercy. We are loved by so many people; family, friends, and people in the community. We have felt all the support and prayers and well wishes and we are ever so grateful for all of them...

....yep pickles....

2009-09-21T19:37:00.000-07:00

...Well, it's official six months pregnant and craving pickles. Never thought that one would happen, I absolutely hate pickles normally. Today though, I saw them at the grocery store and it was like the baby knew it. I've eaten about half the jar today alone. Before I was pregnant I thought that the "craving" thing was just a ruse pregnant women use to get the things they want when they want it. Let me tell you though, it's no joke. I've craved really weird things like chips, salsa, and beans and boneless buffalo wings, super hot drenched in ranch. I have even just wanted a really big cup of ice to suck on. All of those things I would eat normally so that hasn't really thrown me off. But this pickle craving is bizarre. I'm sure it's a phase... right? I mean what isn't a phase when it comes to being pregnant?...

....change is like the boogie man....

2009-08-14T14:40:00.000-07:00

...Creeping up out of the shadows, ready and waiting to pounce on you the moment you let your guard down. Change, good or bad is scary. For me it seems to be my own personal Boogie Man. Lately change just seems to not want to leave me alone, constantly lurking about hanging over head waiting for a chance to turn me into a nervous wreck.

...For the past three summers change is simply all that has occurred in my life. When looking on the bright side there has been a lot of good and exciting change. The type of boogie man experience that occurs when you finally realize your a fool for being scared of a cute fluffy kitten... like getting married, Preston graduating college, moving, and having a baby have been the scary but cute and fun change.

...Unfortunately though there's good and bad in everything and we can't experience life without the big hairy Boogie Man scary kind of change . A lot of the change has been just that scary, hairy and... trying. Without getting into all the hairy details, much of this change we have experienced has been emotionally draining and to tell the truth exhausting.

...The whole point of this post is for me to just be able to write down my thoughts and to get them out of my head. So that when I experience more change I can read this and be reminded of what I have learned. I have very slowly come to learn that even though I have experienced a high concentration of change in the past two years it's my responsibility to lean on my faith in the gospel, in my Savior, and my tender mercy of a husband. I have also discovered that there really is no such thing as bad change, it's just change. It's up to me and my family to figure out how to deal with it, while relying on Heavenly Father to lighten the load. Also, he can't help me if I'm not willing to be helped. The little everyday things like prayer, scripture study, magnifying my callings, temple attendance, and paying our tithing bring the spirit near. which shows a yearning for help from Father in Heaven...

...I know that at some piont things will calm down and my life might someday seem boring. But until then i guess, bring on the Boogie Man!...

....on hold?...

2009-07-14T20:47:00.001-07:00

It's amazing how not having the little everyday things (like say the internet) seem to put a very busy life on hold. Right now our lives seem as busy and confusing as a baby in a topless bar. For the few people who follow our blog our life seems like nothing's new, boy is that wrong. it's killing me to not have the internet and have so much going on. Just so you know I haven't given up on the blog and we will have the internet soon. Then I'll be able to attempt to catch everyone up on the happenings in the House of Payne.

....goodbye rexburg!....

2009-03-22T11:49:00.000-07:00

Goodbye little tiny apartment, goodbye washer and dryer (that sounds like a Jet is taking off), goodbye front door... finally April is almost here... Preston is graduating, and we are Moving! Preston and I have decided that we are going to Washington for the summer. I'm really excited, I love Seattle and I miss his family. As far as staying there permanently we're still not sure. When it comes to the future, and settling down for good it's all blurry. We are still waiting to hear from a few Dental Hygiene schools!... waiting and wishing. What we do know is that the Payne's never like to do anything easy so we are moving next week, Preston likes moving because... quote, "It gives us a chance to get rid of stuff". I dislike moving because.... quote "It gives Preston a chance to get rid of stuff". Anyway we'll be staying at my mom's for a week, and then it's off to Disneyland, after that it's straight to Washington. busy... busy... busy.

....countdown to disney!....

2009-03-13T22:50:00.000-07:00

...that's right, Preston and I are going to California! We decided that we needed to take advantage of our "no kid" time while we still can. Preston graduates in April. We finally see a light at the end of the education tunnel! So to celebrate we're going to see Mickey and Minnie. I'm so excited! We're going with Janae and Travis (a.k.a. Tranae). It's going to be so much fun. A full week of sun, beaches, shopping, and Disneyland magic! Both of the boys have never been there, Janae and I are veterans can't wait and to show the boys how much fun they can have with random people dressed up as Disney characters... Eeek I'm so excited!